Opening Act

Wigger makes debut on golf’s biggest stage

Leah Wigger

Just over a month after graduating from UVA with a degree in psychology, Leah Wigger found herself in Southern Pines, N.C., teeing off in what’s arguably the most prestigious event in women’s golf—the U.S. Women’s Open. After qualifying for the Open, Wigger, the most accomplished golfer in University of Virginia history, had an unceremonious introduction to life in the big leagues.

“After the Open, I realized I’ve been satisfied with mediocre golf for a while,” says Wigger, who fired an opening-round 82 before carding a 75 in the second round. Wigger’s two-day total of 157 missed the cut. “Playing in the U.S. Open really opened my eyes to all the hard work I have in front of me.”

Wigger, a three-time All-America and four-time All-ACC selection, is currently playing on the Future’s Tour, a collection of young talent with their eyes on an even greater prize—an LPGA Tour card.

“You have to earn your keep. That’s what the LPGA is all about,” says Wigger, who hopes to qualify for the LPGA in November. “It’s a gradual process. The Future’s Tour is a stepping-stone to the LPGA. It’s a way to get experience.”

With a lifetime of work and practice ahead of her, Wigger’s time at UVA has provided a strong foundation. In July, she was named to the 2007 All-American Scholar team for the fourth straight year.

“It’s just like anything in life—you have to work at it to get good,” Wigger says.